Duke says no truth in claims of rift with brother

The Duke of York has said there is “no truth” in rumours of a rift between him and the Prince of Wales over his daughters’ participation as members of the royal family.

Making a rare public statement, Prince Andrew posted a link on Twitter in response to recent rumours regarding Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice.

He said: “It is a complete fabrication to suggest I have asked for any future husbands of the Princesses to have titles. There is no truth to the story that there could be a split between The Prince of Wales and I over my daughters’ participation as members of the royal family and any continued speculation is pointless.”

Prince Andrew’s response came after reports claimed he would seek to persuade the Queen or Charles to make any future son-in-laws earls.

His statement added that as a father, he wishes for his daughters to be “modern working young women” who happen to be members of the royal family.

He continued: “I am delighted to see them building their careers. When they do support the royal family in its work this is very much appreciated by my family, and most importantly by those organisations and to those for whom their participation makes such a difference to their lives. Whilst I appreciate, as granddaughters of the Queen, there is considerable interest in my daughters, I cannot continue to stand by and have (speculation) on their futures based on my purported interventions, which are completely made up.”

His comments come after the Duchess of York said: “Stop bullying the Yorks.”